The couple were walking along Mile End Road when they were approached by a man and sprayed with acid.

Prosecutor Kavitha Tharson said: "A substance was thrown in the complainant's face that burned him instantly.

"The girlfriend also had liquid thrown over her that caused her harm. The acid has gone on her tummy, I have no information as to the impact on the pregnancy.

"I can only assume some impact has been made."

Mustafa Ahmed, 19, of Stepney, East London, appeared at Thames Magistrates Court today charged with one count of wounding with intent to do grievous bodily harm and one count of attempted wounding with intent to do GBH.

Ahmed, who currently lives with his parents and is studying at college, spoke only to confirm his name, age and address.

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